Premergency First Aid, CPR and AED Manual

7 Bleeding, Wound Care and Trauma

Insects Most patients will only experience a mild reaction to insect bites and stings. Minor swelling and redness at the site with itchiness or mild pain are common. Some patients may have a stronger allergic reaction. Hives, watery eyes, and a runny nose or redness and swelling not confined to the site of the bite or sting are all signs that the patient is more sensitive to the allergen. In rare cases the patient may have an anaphylactic allergic reaction. This is a possible life threat and must be recognized and first aid given quickly (See Severe Allergic Reaction – Anaphylaxis, Chapter 3). Always ask the patient if they have had an allergic reaction to a bite or sting before. Monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of allergic reaction and be prepared to provide first aid for a severe allergic reaction.

First aid for a rattlesnake bite focuses on slowing the spread of venom and getting the patient to medical care quickly.

DO • Place the patient at rest • Keep the bite injury below the level of the heart • Flush the bite with soapy water • If the bite is on a limb, wrap the entire limb in a compression bandage • Immobilize the limb as a fracture • Get the patient to medical help as soon as possible DON’T • Let the patient walk unless there is no other way to access medical help • Apply ice or cold compresses to the bite • Attempt to suck out the venom

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